Hello, dart game enthusiasts and curious beginners!
Whether you’re an experienced dart player looking to spice up your game night or you’re just starting your dart-throwing journey, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of darts, covering everything from traditional dart games to creative variations.
So, grab your darts, steady your aim, and let’s get started!
Top 13 Dart Games
1. Classic 501
We’ll start with the classic and the most universally recognized dart game: 501.
The rules are simple: each player starts with a score of 501 and takes turns throwing three darts.
The aim is to reduce your score to zero as quickly as possible.
But there’s a catch: you must finish the game with a double or a bullseye!
This little rule adds an element of strategy and suspense to the game that keeps it exciting even after countless rounds.
2. Cricket
Cricket is another traditional dart game beloved by many.
Unlike 501, the objective isn’t to reach zero, but to ‘close out’ numbers from 20 down to 15 and the bullseye before your opponents.
You ‘own’ a number once you’ve hit it three times, and if you hit it more times before your opponents close it out, you’ll score that number’s points.
This game tests your precision as well as your tactical acumen, making it a fantastic choice for a lively evening with friends.
3. Around the Clock
For a game that’s a little less competitive and a bit more relaxing, try Around the Clock.
The goal is to hit each number in order from 1 to 20, and finally the bullseye.
It’s a fantastic game for beginners because it encourages players to aim at different parts of the board, improving their skill and understanding of the dartboard.
4. Killer
If you’re looking for something more cutthroat, Killer is your game.
Players start by ‘owning’ a number, which they pick by throwing a dart with their non-dominant hand.
Once everyone has a number, the aim is to ‘kill’ your opponents by hitting their numbers before they hit yours.
With a mix of strategy, accuracy, and a little bit of luck, Killer will certainly keep you on your toes!
5. Shanghai
Shanghai is an excellent game for larger groups.
Each round corresponds to a number on the board, starting with 1 and going up to 20.
Players score points by hitting that number, with extra points for doubles and triples.
If a player manages to hit a single, double, and triple of the round’s number – that’s a Shanghai, and they immediately win the game!
6. Halve-It
Want to add a little more excitement (and arithmetic) to your game night? Try Halve-It!
In this game, players need to hit predetermined numbers or targets in each round.
If they succeed, they score points; if they miss, their score is halved.
With the risk of losing points looming over each throw, Halve-It is sure to keep everyone on the edge of their seats.
7. Legs
Let’s look at Legs, a game that’s all about consistency.
Players must hit a double to start scoring, then aim to reach exactly 61 points.
But be careful – if you score more than 61, you’ll have to start again!
Legs is a great game for honing your control and precision.
8. English Cricket
For a fresh twist on the traditional Cricket game, try English Cricket.
The rules are simple: players must hit the numbers 1 to 9 in order, but they can also score by hitting the outer bull (25 points) or the bullseye (50 points).
This variation introduces a whole new level of strategy, making it a great choice for seasoned players looking for a challenge.
9. Tic Tac Toe
Yes, you read that right!
You can play Tic Tac Toe with darts.
Draw a tic-tac-toe grid on a piece of paper, tape it to the dartboard, and aim for the squares.
It’s a fun, innovative way to change up your dart game routine and engage players of all skill levels.
10. Knockout
Knockout is a thrilling game that tests your accuracy and nerve.
Each player chooses a number, and the objective is to hit your number more times than your opponents in each round.
If you hit the least, you’re knocked out!
This continues until only one player is left standing.
11. Hare and Hounds
This is a two-player game with a thrilling chase!
One player is the ‘Hare’, starting at 20 and aiming to reach 1, while the other is the ‘Hound’, starting at 1 and aiming for 20.
The Hare has a head start, but the Hound is hot on their trail!
If the Hound overtakes the Hare, they win, but if the Hare reaches 1 first, they escape and win the game.
12. Prisoner
This game is all about strategy and accuracy.
Each player starts by ‘owning’ a number, which they gain by hitting it three times.
Then the aim is to ‘imprison’ your opponents by hitting their numbers more times than they hit yours.
But watch out – if you’re imprisoned, you’ll need to hit a double or triple to escape!
13. Fives
Last but not least, Fives is a great game for improving your mental math skills!
The objective is to throw three darts per turn and have their sum be a multiple of five.
If you succeed, you score the amount that’s divisible by five.
If you don’t, you score no points.
It’s a fantastic way to add a fun, educational twist to your dart games.
Conclusion
And there you have it – thirteen dart games to take your game nights to new heights.
From traditional classics to creative new spins, there’s something here for everyone. If you’d like to see more, check out our list of top drinking games.
Remember, the most important part of any game is to have fun and enjoy the experience.
So, pick your favorite games from this list, invite your friends over, and let the darts fly!
Happy darting!
